India Doubles Free LPG Cylinder Supply for Migrant Workers
The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has issued a significant directive to all states and Union Territories, instructing them to double the daily supply of 5-kg Free Trade LPG (FTL) cylinders specifically designated for migrant laborers. This move comes as the Central Government emphasizes that the overall LPG supply situation across the country remains stable and fully under control.
Enhanced Distribution for Vulnerable Groups
In an official letter addressed to all Chief Secretaries, Petroleum Secretary Neeraj Mittal outlined that the additional cylinders must be distributed exclusively to migrant laborers within their respective states. This distribution will be carried out with the active support of Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) to ensure targeted delivery.
The decision follows a recent assessment which revealed that the average daily supply of these cylinders during March 2-3, 2026 had already exceeded the 20 percent cap established in an earlier communication dated March 21, 2026. This indicates growing demand among the migrant workforce.
State Oversight and Coordination
Secretary Mittal clarified that state governments, particularly through their Food and Civil Supplies Departments, will be responsible for supervising the entire distribution process. Their role is crucial to guarantee that the extra 5-kg cylinders reach the intended beneficiaries efficiently and without diversion.
This measure is strategically designed to improve access to cooking fuel for migrant workers, especially during periods of heightened demand. The directive was issued after a high-level review meeting chaired by the Petroleum Secretary with state officials, where the Centre stressed the imperative of maintaining adequate LPG supply nationwide.
During the meeting, states were instructed to prioritize LPG distribution for domestic and essential needs while maintaining strict vigilance against hoarding, diversion, and the spread of misinformation. On specific concerns regarding FTL LPG for migrant workers, states assured the Centre that there was no disruption in supply affecting this group and that availability remains stable.
Government Reassures on Supply Stability
At an inter-ministerial briefing addressing developments in the Middle East, Sujata Sharma, Joint Secretary in the Petroleum Ministry, firmly dismissed reports of any LPG shortage in India. She confirmed that no "dryout" has been reported at petrol pumps or LPG distributorships anywhere in the country.
"All petrol pumps are operating normally, and no dryout has been reported at LPG distributorships either," Sharma stated. She provided detailed figures to underscore the robust supply chain: 6,500 tonnes of commercial LPG were sold on Monday to meet ongoing demand, and approximately 6.75 lakh 5-kg Free Trade LPG cylinders have been sold nationwide since March 23.
Awareness Campaigns and Digital Efficiency
The ministry reported that Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) oil marketing companies have organized around 550 awareness camps across various states specifically for 5-kg FTL cylinders, resulting in the sale of over 6,700 cylinders. In a more recent update, Sharma noted that OMCs conducted an impressive 1,300 awareness camps over the last four days, during which 10,005 cylinders were sold.
Furthermore, online LPG bookings have surged to approximately 97 percent across the industry, while Delivery Authentication Code (DAC)-based deliveries have increased to around 90 percent. This digital enhancement is a key strategy to curb the diversion of cylinders and ensure they reach legitimate consumers.
Normal Domestic Supply and Public Assurance
Domestic LPG supplies to households have continued without interruption, with more than 18 crore cylinders delivered since March 1. The ministry has issued a strong appeal to the public, urging citizens not to believe in rumors or misinformation regarding potential shortages. The government's message is clear: the LPG supply system is functioning smoothly, and targeted measures are in place to support vulnerable populations like migrant workers.
